Irvine Quek Siew Lhek

Who they are

Irvine Quek Siew Lhek is a world-renowned barista and latte artist from Malaysia, best known for becoming the World Latte Art Champion in 2018. As the founder of 103 Coffee Workshop in Kuala Lumpur, he has transitioned from a competitive champion to a mentor and entrepreneur, significantly elevating the profile of Malaysian specialty coffee on the global stage.

Philosophy

• Precision in Detail: Driven by the belief that a perfect cup of coffee requires meticulous attention to every variable, from milk texture to the angle of the pour.
• Creative Storytelling: Views latte art as a medium for narrative, often incorporating complex, multi-layered designs that tell a visual story.
• Mentorship and Growth: Dedicated to training the next generation of baristas, emphasizing that technical skill must be paired with hospitality.
• Innovation in Equipment: Actively collaborates with industry manufacturers to refine tools that improve the workflow and consistency of professional baristas.

Notable quotes

"Winning the championship wasn't the end of the journey; it was the start of a new chapter where I share what I've learned with the world."

Signature gear & coffee

• Fellow Products: Often seen using Fellow kettles and gear in his brewing and lifestyle photography.
• 103 Coffee Roasts: Specializes in sourcing and roasting seasonal micro-lots for his cafes in Malaysia.
• JIBBIJUG: Known for using high-end, specialized milk pitchers designed for precision pouring.

Known for

• 2018 World Latte Art Champion: Becoming the first Malaysian to ever win the prestigious competition.
• 103 Coffee: The founder of this influential specialty coffee brand and roastery based in Kuala Lumpur.
• Global Workshops: Renowned for hosting masterclasses worldwide, teaching the "Irvine style" of high-contrast, high-detail latte art.
• Signature Designs: Famous for his intricate "Hornbill" pours that showcased unprecedented levels of symmetry and detail.